September 2023

"Another fall, another turned page..."

Wallace Stegner

BACK TO SCHOOL

Our Pre-K and Preschool are currently enrolling for our new fall school year. Our rooms follow the award-winning Highscope curriculum that provides enrichment and education for children as they learn through play, supported by our experienced and nurturing teachers. Children begin each day with a circle time where they discuss their theme of the week and learning objectives for that day. Each day our children enjoy two periods of outside time where we utilize our playground and terrace, Shain Park, or a lovely walk around the neighborhood.

In addition, we are delighted to announce that the TCH Early Childhood Center has created a new advanced school program to help fill an educational need in our community. Our first-ever Junior K+ Program will launch this September. Our new Junior K+ Program will enrich and challenge young five students that have completed Pre-K but may be “not quite ready” to start Kindergarten. Junior K+ stops the regression of repeating a second year in a program by providing an exclusive environment with enhanced focus on phonetic awareness and sound blending, developing sentence building, independence and self-help skill sets, science exploration and critical thinking skills.

For more information about our Preschool, new Community Scholars, or new Junior K+ Programs please reach out now to secure your child’s enrollment - before enrollment is filled for the start of the 2023-2024 School Year. Please note: There are extremely limited spaces available for your child. For more information, schedule a tour or secure a spot, please contact Ms. Sarah Schuster, Head of School, at 248-594-6411 or via sschuster@communityhouse.com. Together, let’s leave no child behind.

FALL & HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES 2023

Birmingham is a city renowned for its sophistication and charm, and The Community House is set to host a series of exceptional events. From the prestigious House Tour to refined bourbon soirées, enchanting classical concerts, and even Storytime with Santa, there is something for everyone.

2023 Birmingham House Tour: For over three decades, the Birmingham House Tour, presented by The Agency Hall & Hunter, has been putting the finishing touches to one of The Community House’s most treasured events; The Birmingham House Tour. The 34th edition is set to take place on September 14 from 9:30 am – 3:30 pm. This year’s house tour promises to provide attendees with an unparalleled glimpse into the architectural diversity of the area. From timeless classical designs to cutting-edge innovations, this self-guided tour allows participants to explore the showcased homes at their own pace and for those needing a midday break purchasing an enjoyable lunch in the Wallace Ballroom of The Community House, prepared by our award-winning Corporate Executive Chef, Ryan Friedrich. We are grateful for the incredibly generous support from our 2023 Presenting Sponsor, The Agency Hall & Hunter and supporting sponsors: Trion Solutions, Gorman’s Home Furnishings and Interior Design, Gardner White, ART + FRAME, Devon Title, and Chief Financial Credit Union. There’s still time to secure sponsorship opportunity or to reserve your tickets. Contact us today at 248-644-5832 or visit communityhouse.com/event/birmingham-house-tour-2023/

2023 Bourbon, Cigars, and Friends: If you are seeking a sensory journey that’s both refined and bold, we invite you to spend your evening at Bourbon, Cigars, and Friends, held against the backdrop of the charming Van Dusen Terrace. The event, which takes place on September 21, will feature a curated selection of premium cigars from Wild Bill’s Tobacco as well as Elijah Craig and Evan Williams luxury bourbons. At this celebration of craftsmanship and luxury, attendees can indulge in an assortment of artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and other delicacies while relishing the flavors and aromas that blend seamlessly. It’s a night that promises to captivate all bourbon and cigar connoisseurs. Additional information, including online registration, will be shared on The Community House website and social media.

2023 Bourbon and the Beast: Mark your calendars for October 12 and 26 – these two evenings are reserved for an extraordinary and rare culinary adventure, an exclusive, intimate dinner featuring wild game expertly paired with rare varieties of luxury bourbons. This event transcends traditional dining, offering a spectacular fusion of rich flavors and exquisite spirits. Presented by our award-winning culinary team, the true star of the evening is the meticulously crafted wild game menu. Whether you’re a bourbon enthusiast or a lover of fine dining, Bourbon and the Beast is not to be missed. Extremely limited spaces are available – registration is coming soon.

2023 Classical Brunch Series: Join us on October 15 and November 19 for the two remaining concerts in the 2023 Classical Brunch Series, where music and cuisine converge to create an unforgettable experience. Featuring mesmerizing performances by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra musicians, this series brings together exquisite classical melodies and gourmet brunch offerings. The upcoming October concert features Hai-Xin Wu on violin; the Assistant Concertmaster, Caroline Coade, viola; our Classical Brunch Artistic Director, cellist Una O’Riordan; and violinist Alex Volkov. We extend heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors, Gwen and Richard Bowlby, Hagopian, and WRCJ. Reservations can be made at www.communityhouse.com/event/classical-brunch/ or by calling 248-644-5832.

2023 Thanksgiving Eve Party (aka Bar Night): The holiday season is a time to pause and reflect on the blessings in our lives, surrounded by the laughter and company of those we hold dear. This year, on Thanksgiving Eve, November 22, a unique gathering awaits at The Community House—an evening that captures the essence of reuniting with old friends and forging new connections. The Thanksgiving Eve Party is the perfect prelude to the holiday season, offering a vibrant blend of heartwarming conversations, delectable, handcrafted cocktails, and a superb array of strolling stations. Whether catching up with friends or making new acquaintances, the Thanksgiving Eve Party promises a night of laughter and joy that will leave you eagerly anticipating the holiday festivities.

2023 Holiday Concert Series: We invite you to take a seat at our holiday-themed concerts on December 6, 13, and 20 and immerse yourself in a world of music. Experience a rare opportunity to listen to internationally renowned musicians and artists in an intimate setting. To complement the performance, there will be a variety of delicious desserts to tempt the taste buds. After the performance, the musicians will become part of the audience, conversing with guests, and sharing in the appreciation of the art they’ve created. A cash bar will be available throughout the evening.

2023 Storytime with Santa: There’s no better way to capture the magic of the holidays than at Storytime with Santa. Gather your loved ones on December 9 and spend an afternoon surrounded by holiday cheer that will leave your hearts aglow. Santa takes center stage as he reads a captivating tale, weaving a spellbinding narrative that will captivate young and old alike. But the magic doesn’t stop with the story. Little hands can express their creativity at craft stations, creating holiday memories that will be cherished for years. All guests will share extravagant cookies and steaming cups of hot chocolate – and the adults can add a little more cheer to their cups with holiday spirits from the bar.

Remember it’s important to live, shop and dine locally. All money raised or spent in Birmingham should stay in Birmingham. We’re in it together.

William D. Seklar is President & CEO of the Community House Association and Board Chair, President & CEO of the Community House Foundation in Birmingham.